Nathan MacKinnon, Cale Makar Exit With Injuries

The Colorado Avalanche were dealt as big a blow as any team could in tonight’s contest against the Ottawa Senators. According to a team announcement, both forward Nathan MacKinnon and defenseman Cale Makar have exited tonight’s game with lower-body injuries.

MacKinnon’s injury can firmly be tied to his attempt to check Senators defenseman Artem Zub. After the collision, MacKinnon was visibly in pain, appearing to favor his hip. The former MVP tried to stay on Colorado’s bench for a few minutes but eventually limped to the locker room.

Meanwhile, Makar’s injury isn’t as clear. He left a few seconds before MacKinnon, but returned for one shift. He barely moved in his lone shift after the injury and was quickly ruled out afterward.

Obviously, losing either MacKinnon or Makar for any duration would be detrimental to the Avalanche. Losing both at the same time is a different story entirely. MacKinnon and Makar are not only Colorado’s best players, but are also two of the NHL’s top players.

Although they aren’t having seasons like Connor McDavid or Evan Bouchard, MacKinnon and Makar are still keeping pace. In 19 games, the reigning Rocket Richard winner has 10 goals and 30 points with a +7 rating, averaging 20:40 of ice time per game. Meanwhile, Makar has registered five goals and 23 points in 18 games with a +5 rating, averaging 22:54 of ice time per game.

Despite superb starts from MacKinnon and Makar, the Avalanche haven’t had the best start to the 2026-27 campaign; at least compared to last year. Last season, through 19 games, the Presidents’ Trophy champions had only one regulation loss. Through 19 games this year, Colorado already has six. Still, they’re third in the Central Division and are firmly in the postseason conversation.

However, if MacKinnon and Makar miss any time, it could severely impact Colorado’s outlook. The Avalanche have built quality depth, but they don’t have anyone who can adequately replace either.